One of the main reasons patients choose MIS is the promise of getting back to normal life sooner and for most, that promise holds true.
The General Timeline
- First few days: Rest, elevation, and short periods of walking in the protective shoe
- 1st week: Light daily activities at home; many patients with desk jobs can often manage some work remotely
- 2–3 weeks: Gradual increase in activity and mobility as swelling decreases
- 6 weeks and beyond: Return to regular shoes, longer walks, and most normal daily activities
It Depends on Your Lifestyle
- Office or remote work: Many patients return within 1–2 weeks
- Jobs requiring standing or walking for long periods: Usually need a few more weeks before returning comfortably
- Sports or high-impact activity: Typically requires clearance around 6–8 weeks or more, depending on healing progress
While these timelines are typical, healing pace can vary based on the individual case, the extent of correction needed, and how closely post-operative instructions are followed.
Regular follow-up appointments help track progress and adjust expectations along the way.
Compared to the longer downtime often associated with traditional open surgery, MIS allows most patients to reintegrate into daily life notably faster one of its most appreciated benefits.